Feeling the sizzle of this current heat wave? I know! Everyone is complaining about how unbearable the weather is, and now everyone makes jokes about how Nigeria is closer to ‘hell fire’.
Do you know that even the few times it has rained in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the weather gets hotter instead of becoming cool, and to make it worse, you can’t even get stable power.
Phew!
As temperatures have risen to uncomfortable and even dangerous levels, it has become necessary for us all to adopt proactive measures to manage the heat effectively.
Here are some helpful tips to navigate through the blistering heat waves.
Stay hydrated
One of the most crucial steps in managing extreme heat is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Also, avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Dress light
Another way is to opt for lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing that allows your body to breathe and helps in sweat evaporation. Dark colours absorb heat, so avoid them.
Wear sun protective accessories
For my girlies, you can also try wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
Use your sunscreen
Do not forget to apply your sunscreen before stepping out into the sun. Sunscreen offers protection against the sun’s harmful rays, so it is important to protect your skin.
Avoid direct sunlight
This next tip, I do this a lot. When outdoors, try to seek shade whenever possible. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in shaded areas to prevent overheating.
Allow adequate ventilation
Another thing to do is to ensure your home is adequately ventilated and try to keep indoor temperatures as cool as possible. Use fans, air conditioners, or cooling devices to circulate air and lower the temperature indoors. You can also close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out sunlight.
Photo source: Freepik
